This multicentre, randomised, blinded trial in 65 french ICUs & 12 field teams enrolled 655 patients to either etomidate or ketamine for emergent intubation for critical illness. Patients were analysed only if they remained in ICU after day 3 (469). Adequate and reasonable power calculation, including predetermined septic & trauma subgroups. Primary end point was maximal SOFA score within 3 days (chosen as etomidate’s effects on adrenocortical axis thought to last <48 hrs). Secondary end points included intubation conditions, and 28 day ICU stay, catecholamine requirement, mortality & adrenocortical insufficiency. Continue reading →